The World Health Organization (WHO) published criteria for acute and subacute toxic effects on the nervous system following radiation and chemotherapy for cancer.
Parameters:
(1) state of consciousness
(2) peripheral neuropathy
(3) constipation, not related to the use of narcotics
where:
• I am not quite sure why constipation is listed with neurotoxicity rather than gastrointestinal toxicity.
Grade 0: if the findings are normal for a parameter
Grade of Toxicity |
state of consciousness |
peripheral neuropathy |
constipation |
Grade 0 |
alert |
none |
none |
Grade 1 |
transient lethargy |
paresthesias and/or decreased tendon reflexes |
mild |
Grade 2 |
somnolence < 50% of waking hours |
severe paresthesias and/or mild weakness |
moderate |
Grade 3 |
somnolence >= 50% of waking hours |
intolerable paresthesias and/or marked motor loss |
abdominal distention |
Grade 4 |
coma |
paralysis |
distention and vomiting |
Specialty: Hematology Oncology, Neurology